dilation and curettage

(dy-LAY-shun ??? kyoo-reh-TAZH)A procedure to scrape and remove tissue from the inner lining of the uterus. The cervix is dilated (made larger) and a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) is inserted into the uterus to remove tissue. A tissue sample may then be checked under a microscope for signs of disease, such as infection or cancer. A dilation and curettage may also be done after a miscarriage or to treat certain conditions, such as abnormal bleeding.
Also called D&C and dilatation and curettage.